How much does an architect cost in the UK?

There is no fixed scale of architects' fees in the UK. Fees vary with the size of the project, its complexity, the level of service and the location. What matters is understanding how a fee is structured.

Percentage or fixed fee

Some architects and designers charge a percentage of the construction cost. Others, including us, prefer fixed fees for each stage, agreed in advance, so the fee does not rise if you choose more expensive finishes.

What drives cost

Listed buildings, conservation areas, difficult sites and bespoke detailing all add time. So does the level of involvement on site. A planning-only service costs far less than full design and contract administration.

Questions to ask

Which stages are included? What is excluded? How are additional services charged? Who will actually do the work? A good proposal answers all of these in writing.

Related service: Planning and building regulations drawings